Watch: Dazzling 2-Minute Behind The Scenes Steadicam Shot From ‘Hugo’

By
Charlie Schmidlin
|
The PlaylistMay 30, 2012 at 10:39AM

Although Martin Scorsese’s ode to the wonders of cinema, “Hugo,” was seen as something of a financial failure, there’s no denying the absolute artistry on display in every frame. Scorsese took the medium of 3D and surpassed every other film in its use, while also using the format to comment on the way movies transport us from our daily lives. However, a behind-the-scenes clip has recently surfaced which shows exactly how much effort it took to provide that transportation, and it is truly astounding. Spoilers for those who haven’t seen the film!

Although Martin Scorsese’s ode to the wonders of cinema, “Hugo,” was seen as something of a financial failure, there’s no denying the absolute artistry on display in every frame. Scorsese took the medium of 3D and surpassed every other film in its use, while also using the format to comment on the way movies transport us from our daily lives. However, a behind-the-scenes clip has recently surfaced which shows exactly how much effort it took to provide that transportation, and it is truly astounding. Spoilers for those who haven’t seen the film!

Taken from a GoPro camera atop the actual camera during the film’s final shot, the clip winds its way through the celebration for George Melies’ (Ben Kingsley) career encore, and also stands as an expert showcase for every cast and crew member in the process. Boom mics sway in and out of conversations, pieces of sets are detached to make room for crew, and of course there are the actors, such as Chloe Moretz, Sacha Baron Cohen, and Emily Mortimer, all hitting their marks impeccably.

Special distinction must be also given to Steadicam operator Larry McConkey, who attached the GoPro in the first place, and lets out a truly exhausted sigh when the shot ends. Scorsese can be heard commenting on the tiny camera as well, questioning McConkey about it too, but eventually he lets out his signature laugh once he finds out what the situation is. Good on him though, because otherwise this indispensable look into the filmmaking process wouldn’t have been possible, as well as this glimpse back on a fantastic film. [via Reddit]